Things to Do with Kids from October 9-15, 2019 – TAPinto.net

There are tons of activities happening this week into next. You and your children can attend the Fall Festival at the OSPAC, the West Orange Fire Department Open House, do some Pumpkin Decorating at the Livingston Library, enjoy a Williams Sonoma Jr. Chef: Halloween Cookie Party and so much more. Adults may want to meet Hoda Kotb at Indigo. There are also some Oct. 9 holiday camps listed below. In addition, National Dessert Day is on Oct. 14 and there are links to some delicious treats to make with children below.

If you are looking to participate in fun activities and more this week, please enjoy this list of “Things to Do with Kids” in and around town, brought to you by The Goddard School in West Orange.

Note: If you attend any of these events, partake in any of the ideas shared below, or just have a great picture of your kid(s) that you’d like featured, please send photos to jackie.eventscolumn@gmail.com. In addition, please send any events you’d like added to this column to the same address.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

World Wednesdays on Oct 9 at 4 pm at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

People of all ages are invited to attend this program featuring folktales, stories, and activities from around the globe, highlighting a different country, region and/or culture.

Chess Club on Oct. 10 at 4 pm at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

Players of all ages and abilities welcome.

Italian Flag Raising on Oct. 10 at 6:15 pm on the Steps of Town Hall (66 Main St., West Orange)

The public is invited to join Mayor Parisi and members of the West Orange Township Council at the UNICO/West Orange-sponsored Italian Flag raising.

West Orange Farmers Market on Oct. 12 from 9 am to 2 pm at 80 Main Street Parking Lot (North End)

Guests will enjoy fresh produce, local eggs and honey, artisanal cheeses, delicious baked goods, fresh juice, local flowers, vegan goods, upcycled crafts, lunch options, and much more. There will be nearly 60 vendors, many of which cater to children with crafts, products, and books.

Eco-Art: Adaptation Artistry on Oct. 12 from 11 am to 12 pm at the Essex Environmental Center (621B Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland)

Families are invited to come and visit habitats and explore how wildlife survives. Guests will use their
imaginations to design tinfoil and plaster creatures adapted to survive a series of imaginary conditions. Advance registration is required. Call 973.228.8776. The fee is $30 per family (up to two adults and two children) or $10 per child; $12 per adult.

Crocheting with Carlotta on Oct. 12 from 11 am to 1 pm at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

Carlotta will show participants how to enjoy the art of crocheting in this cozy program open to people all ages. Yarn and needles will be provided in limited quantities.

Fall Festival on Oct. 12 from 1-5 pm at OSPAC (4 Boland Dr., West Orange)

The public is invited to a free Fall Festival where they will enjoy pumpkin picking, apple cider, games, prizes, food, music, an obstacle course, music, pumpkin painting, a pie baking contest and more.

West Orange Fire Department Open House on Oct. 13 from 10 am to 1 pm at Fire Headquarters, (415 Valley Road, West Orange)

The public is invited to attend a West Orange Fire Department Open House. Activities will include watching the raising of a 100 ft. aerial ladder, a jaws of life rescue demonstration, the operation of a fire hose, learning fire safety tips, a CPR demonstration, a fire extinguisher demonstration, give-a-ways, and light refreshments.

Family Nature Club: Nature Adventurers on Oct. 13 at 1 pm at the South Mountain Reservation and Reservoir

Wizards, witches, superheroes…animals? Don your best (outdoor play friendly) costume and go on a special Halloween adventure as your character. Hike the woodland trails and gain superpowers through mini-games and observing the “powers” of wildlife along the way. The quest can only be completed if we work together- can you do it? Spare masks and capes will be available for those that need a costume, but we encourage everyone to dress up and get creative! Come play and learn outdoors with TBZ’s very own family nature club, Nature Adventurers. Nature play is playing with nature, not just in nature and a great way to interact with nature no matter your experience level or play style. Run, climb, build, dig, or even just sit and experience the sounds, smells, and sights of the outdoors. Nature Adventurers will visit different spots in the Essex County South Mountain Reservation each month. Tickets may be purchased alone or with a Nature Adventurers backpack to take home filled with goodies helpful for nature play in both our activities and your own self-guided adventures. Click here to register. Call 973-731-5800 ext. 236 for details.

Craft Club on Oct. 13 from 3-4 pm at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

People of all ages are invited to come and work on a variety of creative projects.

Wild Birds Unlimited Presents: Fall Migration on Oct. 14 from 7-8:30 pm at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

During the Autumn, hundreds of bird species take to the skies for warmer climates. This program discusses why they migrate and the latest theories on the strategies birds use to find their way.

It’s Time to Register for the West Orange Chili Cook-off (Contest is on Oct. 19)

Register here to compete in the Chili Cook-off at the West Orange Farmer’s Market that is taking place on Oct. 19. Guests will vote on which chili is their favorite. The chili with the most votes will win the prize. There are two categories to enter: Traditional Chili and Vegan Chili. On the day of the event, contestants should bring a ready-to-serve chili and their entry ticket to the market. Setup time is at 8 am and serving starts at 9 am. All chili should be brought in a crockpot with a lid and a serving utensil (ex. ladle or spoon). Electricity to keep the chili warm will be provided. All market guests will receive two tickets and the chance to sample all chili entries. Each guest will vote on their favorite traditional chili and favorite vegan chili. Votes will be tallied at 1 pm. The $10 registration fee is non-refundable.

Celebrate the Big Draw with Free Art Sessions at the Apple Store from Oct. 1-31 at the Short Hills Mall (1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills)

From October 1–31, join free at Apple art sessions at Apple Short Hills and take part in the world’s biggest drawing festival – The Big Draw. Get hands-on with iPad and Apple Pencil to draw, paint, and more. Check times for upcoming sessions here: apple.com. Call (973) 467-4890 for details.

Behind the Scenes TBZ Animal Hospital on Oct. 13 at 2-2:30 pm at Turtle Back Zoo (560 Northfield Avenue West Orange)

The public is invited for a 30-minute Behind the Scenes Tour of the Zoo where they meet and greet one of TBZ’s Vet Techs. Hospital Tours are geared for older audiences. Those ages 6 – 18 must be accompanied by an adult. All members of the party must have a ticket. There are no photos permitted in the Hospital. Click here to register. Ticket includes admission.

HOLIDAY MINI-CAMPS

Animal Adaptations I and II Mini Camp at the Zoo on Oct 9 and 14 from 9 am to 4 pm at the Turtle Back Zoo

Children ages 5 to 10, with a school holiday on the 9^th and/or 14^th, are invited to participate in one or both Animal Adaptations I and II mini-camps at the Zoo. Campers will discover some amazing adaptations that allow animals to survive and thrive in their environments. For information call 973-731-5800 ext 103 or email mhunt@parks.essexcountynj.org. Register here.

Mini-Camp at Hoop Heaven on October 9 from 9 am -1 pm (125 Algonquin Parkway, Whippany)

The camp will consist of skills, drills, contests, and games. Campers should bring their own lunch or can buy pizza. Fee: $65 full day. Register here. Call 973-884-4667 for information.

FUN FOR LITTLE KIDS

Saturday Storytimes on Oct. 12 from 10-10:30 am at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

Children ages 0 – 5 and caregivers will listen to stories and work on a craft.

Little Moving Artist Class at Monica + Andy on Oct. 9 from 10:30-11:15 am at the Short Hills Mall (1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills)

Bring your little ones, ages 2-4, to participate in a Movement Class with The Little Moving Artist. Children will enjoy this whimsical and imaginative movement class that incorporates dancing, imagery, music, sensory props and costumes. Children will ice skate on paper plates, tap dance on bubble wrap, take part in an ultimate snowball fight, bug hunt, fly with superhero capes and wings, freeze dance, and more. Drop-in fee: $10; Family: $15.

Storytime at Barnes and Noble on Oct. 10 and 15 at 10 am at the Livingston Mall (112 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston)

Children will embark on an exciting adventure as they are introduced to some of your childhood favorites, as well as some you may not have heard before.

Little Explorers Fall Nature Program on (see dates below) from 10-11 am at the Essex County Environmental Center (621B Eagle Rock Ave, Roseland)

This child-caregiver class uses stories, walks, and crafts to develop an awareness and appreciation for science and nature for the child as well as the caregiver. Each week, a different nature or science topic is covered. Advance registration and payment are required; call 973.228.8776. Fee: $12 per child/session

Schedule:

Toddlers (age 2) – Tuesdays— October 15, 22, 29; November 5, 12, 19 10 am to 11 am
Tots (age 3) – Thursdays— October 10, 17, 24, 31; November 7, 14, 21 1pm to 2pm
Pre-K (ages 4-5) – Tuesdays — October 15, 22, 29; November 5, 12, 19 1pm to 2pm OR Thursdays— October 10, 17, 24, 31; November 7, 14, 21 10 am to 11 am

Books n’ Babies Storytime on Oct. 10 at 10:30 am at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

Children up to 24 months and their caregivers will enjoy a morning class that includes stories, songs, and rhymes to introduce babies to language skills.

Musical Storytime with Guitar Joe on Oct. 10 from 4 pm at the Livingston Library (10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston)

Join Guitar Joe for a magnificent medley of music and storytelling: songs, picture books, puppet shows, dance parties, multimedia presentations, drum circles, egg-shaker jams, and so much more! For children ages 2 to 5 years, and their caregivers. No registration required.

Storytime and Activities Featuring Elbow Grease vs. Motozilla on Oct. 12 at 11 am at Barnes and Noble at the Livingston Mall (112 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston)

Elbow Grease is back to face off against Motozilla, but it’s going to take teamwork from his four big brothers. Children are invited to come and enjoy this exciting story about the importance of believing in yourself. Activities to follow, plus, guests will receive a coupon from the Café for a grilled cheese sandwich with milk or juice for $4.

Baby & Me Storytime Featuring Noses on Oct. 13 at Barnes and Noble at the Livingston Mall (112 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston)

Children ages 0-24 months old and their caregivers are invited to attend Baby & Me Storytime where they will enjoy a book and participate in activities featuring sensory growth. Guests will receive a coupon for a $2 off a grande Starbucks Pumpkin Spiced Latte.

Terrific Toddlers Storytime on Oct. 15 at 10:30 am at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

Children ages 2 – 3 ½ and their caretakers will enjoy puppets, stories, songs and fingerplays.

Preschool Storytime on Oct. 15 at 11:30 am at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

Children and their caregivers are invited to come and enjoy interactive stories, songs, and games.

FUN FOR KINDERGARTEN TO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-AGED KIDS

Forest Friends Club on Oct. 10 from 4-5 pm at the Essex Environmental Center (621B Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland)

Children ages 5 years and up are invited to come and explore the forest using nets, binoculars, magnifiers and microscopes to investigate nature in the wooded wetland habitat. The program will foster an ethic of stewardship and offer an opportunity to take part in hands-on conservation projects. Advance registration is required. Call 973.228.8776. The fee is $10 per child.

Pumpkin Decorating on Oct. 11 from 4-5 pm at the Livingston Library (10 Robert H Harp Dr, Livingston)

Children in grades K-5 and their caregivers are invited to get into the Halloween spirit by decorating pumpkins (while supplies last).

Williams Sonoma Jr. Chef: Halloween Cookie Party on Oct. 12 from 10-11 am at the Short Hills Mall (1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills)

Children ages 8-13 are invited to participate in a Halloween Cookie Party class. Participants will bake some frightfully fun and delicious cookies using cookie stamps. The cost of $30 per child includes Halloween cookie stamps. Please call (973) 467-3641 to reserve a spot.

Yakety Yak Book Club on Oct. 15 from 4:30 – 5:15 pm at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

This is a book discussion for 2nd and 3rd graders. Those interested should stop by the library to pick up this month’s book.

Frog Pond Club on Oct. 14 from 4-5 pm at the Essex Environmental Center (621B Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland)

Children ages 5 through 9 will uncover and discover ecosystem interactions at the frog pond. They will explore with nets, magnifiers, and microscopes to investigate what lives at the pond and learn from a naturalist what can be done to protect and conserve the pond inhabitants. Advance registration is required. Call 973.228.8776. Fee: $10 per child per session

Schedule:

Tuesdays: November 12, December 10
Wednesdays: October 16, November 20, December 18

FUN FOR TEENS

Teen Advisory Group Meeting on Oct. 9 from 7-8 pm at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

Make a difference and help out at the library! You will help plan events for kids and teens and earn community service hours for coming to T.A.G. meetings.

YA Book Club Featuring Serpent & Dove on Oct. 10 at 7 pm at Barnes and Noble at the Livingston Mall (112 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston)

The YA Book Club, which meets on the second Thursday of every month, will be meeting to discuss Serpent & Dove, by Shelby Mahurin, a story about witchcraft and the perils of forbidden love. Participants will receive a coupon for $2 Teavana teas. Click here for details.

Dungeons and Dragons: A Teen Club on Oct. 11 from 3:15-5:15 pm at the West Orange Library (46 Mt Pleasant Ave, West Orange)

Teens ages 13+ are invited to join a Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) adventure! Epic quests await teens who join the DnD club at the library! DnD features role-playing, storytelling, on-the-spot strategic thinking, math skills, problem-solving, and teamwork all rolled into one!

Williams Sonoma Jr. Chef: Halloween Cookie Party on Oct. 12 from 10-11 am at the Short Hills Mall (1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills)

FUN FOR ADULTS

Take the Pink Lips Challenge from Oct. 1-31 at the Short Hills Mall (1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills) and online

Here is a fun way to remind your loved ones to get their mammograms! Take the Pink Lips Challenge at home or stop by the Selfie booths in Grand Court or in the lobby of the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center. Take a picture with your pink lips in the lipstick of your choice. Blow a kiss to someone you love by sharing your post on social media, tagging them, and remind them it’s #TimeToMammo. And most importantly, schedule your mammogram here.

Williams Sonoma Cookbook Club: Bake from Scratch on Oct. 9 from 6:30-8 pm at the Short Hills Mall (1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills)

The Bake from Scratch team is back with a new volume and it’s huge. The 400+ pages are packed with delicious recipes that are sure to bring out the baker in everyone. In this class, participants will bake some favorite recipes from the book. The class will feature cooking tips and techniques and a three-course tasting menu from the book’s best recipes. The cost of $50 per person includes a copy of the new Bake from Scratch Volume 3 Cookbook. Space is limited and reservations are required. Call (973) 467-3641 to register.

Williams Sonoma Technique Class: Fall Baking on Oct. 13 from 11 am to 12 pm at the Short Hills Mall (1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills)

Fall baking season is here! Participants in this class will gear up with decadent new and classic dessert recipes (like Ooey Gooey Pumpkin Bars) that are perfect for fall gatherings. Culinary specialists will show guests some favorite tips and techniques as they prepare and sample great dishes, with recipes to take home. The cost of $35 per person includes a Nordic Ware Sunflower Harvest Loaf Pan. Class size is limited. For more details and to reserve your spot, please call (973) 467-3641.

Indigo in Person with Hoda Kotb on Oct. 16 from 6-7 pm at the Short Hills Mall (1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills)

The public is invited to join TODAY co-anchor and NYT bestselling author Hoda Kotb as she signs copies of her latest book, I Really Needed This Today: Words to Live By. Individuals must have a wristband to be in the event space and book signing line; a limited number of tickets (wristbands) are available; each ticket will admit one person and include one copy of the book; tickets are not available for purchase in-store; maximum one ticket per person; one book maximum per person per ticket; guests will receive a wristband and book when they arrive at the store on the day of the event and must exchange their Ticketscene ticket for a wristband at that time; wristbands are non-transferrable and cannot be sold; access to the event area will only be granted to those guests who received a wristband; signing line-up will be available on a first-come, first-served basis; candid photography and posed photography from the line-up is allowed. The ticket price is $24 and tax and service fees and includes the admission of one person to the event and one personalized copy of Kotb’s book.

HAVE FUN CELEBRATING THIS NATIONAL HOLIDAY

National Dessert Day is on Oct. 14

National Dessert Day is the perfect opportunity to forget about the calories and enjoy your favorite desserts at every meal! Then, tomorrow you can go back on your diet! It’s so easy to enjoy National Dessert Day. Bake your own desserts with your children, buy them at the store, or go out to a restaurant and enjoy some yummy desserts. You can also spend the day enjoying some delicious desserts you’re your family and/or friends.

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY…

The next time you sit down for a family dinner, toss out some of these facts to spark a lively and informative family conversation. After dinner, look up some of these dates and facts and explore the historical moments as a family.

On Oct. 11, 1984 – Space Shuttle Challenger astronaut Kathryn Sullivan became the first American woman to walk in space.
On Oct. 12, 1810 – The very first Oktoberfest was held in Munich, Bavaria, Germany.
On Oct. 14, 1964 – Martin Luther King Jr. was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
On Oct. 15, 1951 – I Love Lucy premiered on television.